TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Pork prices in Miaoli County have climbed for two straight days after the central government lifted a 15-day ban on pig transport and slaughter on Thursday.
County officials said the increase is driven by demand outpacing supply. They added that coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture is underway to raise the number of pigs available for auction, with 1,040 pigs expected to be listed on Monday, per CNA.
Lin Cheng-ching (林澄清), general manager of the Miaoli Meat Market, the nation’s largest auction market for black-haired pigs, said Friday the average auction price reached NT$125 (US$4) per kilogram, the highest in Taiwan. The market typically handles a ratio of roughly 60% black-haired pigs to 40% white-haired pigs.
On Saturday, 628 pigs were auctioned, and the average price rose further to NT$130 per kilogram, though supply still fell short of demand.
The Miaoli County Agriculture Department said the surge was not the result of manipulation but reflected market dynamics following the African swine fever outbreak, which halted pig movement and slaughter for more than two weeks. During the ban, demand built up as frozen food processors and butcher shops tried to secure stock, pushing prices higher once auctions resumed.
To stabilize pork prices and protect both consumers and vendors, the department said the Miaoli Meat Market is working with the Ministry of Agriculture to increase approved auction volumes. Officials expect prices to gradually level off, reducing procurement costs and ensuring consumers can buy pork at reasonable prices.
The department urged the public not to worry, saying central authorities and the market are adjusting supply and anticipate price stabilization beginning next week. It also encouraged consumers to continue supporting domestically produced pork.
Lin said the market usually auctions 600 to 700 pigs per day, with higher volumes on Mondays and Fridays. Before the outbreak, prices averaged around NT$100 per kilogram. He noted that wholesalers are now actively stocking up, further tightening supply.
